England reach Women’s World Cup semi-finals as bowlers fight back in India chase after Heather Knight hits century | Cricket News

Heather Knight marked her 300th international appearance with a third ODI century before England’s bowlers hit back late in India as a four-run victory took Nat Sciver-Brunt’s side through to the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup.

Knight’s charge-sweeping sweep of 109 from 91 balls, in which she shared a third-wicket stand of 113 from 106 deliveries with her successor as captain Nat Sciver-Brunt (38), propped up England’s 288-8 in Indore, but a late collapse of 5-31 prevented a 300-plus score.

In response, India looked on course for victory after reaching 234-3 in the 42nd over after a 125-run stand between Smriti Mandhana (88) and Harmanpreet Kaur (70) was followed by Smriti and Deepti Sharma – who backed up her 4-51 with the ball – putting on 67.

However, Smriti and Deepti then bowled Linsey Smith (1-40) and Sophie Ecclestone (1-58) respectively, while Sciver-Brunt (2-47) accounted for the dangerous Richa Ghosh (8) as India faded.

The hosts found themselves on a 284-6 record as England joined Australia and South Africa in booking their place in the knockout stages.

All other teams at the event are still in the running for the final spot, but it appears to be between India and New Zealand, who meet in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.

England’s final group matches are against Australia in Indore on Wednesday (10:30 a.m. UK), then against New Zealand in Vizag next Sunday (5:30 a.m. UK).

Whatever happens, Sciver-Brunt’s side can look forward to the semi-finals as they aim for a fifth World Cup title in their history and a second abroad.

More to follow.